2017 – “Live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” (Ephesians 4:1). Word: HIGHER (as in, His ways are higher than ours, Isaiah 55:9)

2016 – “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” (Isaiah 61:1-3). Word – GLORY!

It was on November 21/18 that I came across a Scripture while doing a lesson from my Bible Study Fellowship bible study that I couldn’t get out of my head. David (as in the boy who conquered Goliath) penned this particular psalm. Although the Scripture jumped right out at me instantly, I still had over a month to go until the New Year. So I decided to keep on searching, reading, and praying. I found some other wonderful Scriptures that spoke to me. But I simply could not get this Scripture out of my mind. So in the end I decided to go with it. Here is my Scripture for 2019:

“You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.” (Psalm 139:5)

These few short words say so much.

First, God has my back. He protects me from behind. He holds the past in HIS hands and I only need to look forward.

Second, God doesn’t reveal too much about the future. He gives me just enough light for the step I am on. I think that is a blessing.

Third, God’s hand is upon whatever I do. He comforts me. He guides me. He holds me back when necessary, and pulls me forward when the time is right. His hand gives blessing. His touch is loving. He is with me all the time, and for always.

This Scripture has already given me great comfort for what has started out as a rocky year. I am grateful that the Lord led me to this Scripture for 2019.

My word for the year was a little more difficult to choose. I went back and forth with several words for over a month as I prayed for revelation. Finally I decided on this one: in fact a phrase, not a word.

“Lean in.” This is my word for 2019.

This phrase ties together exceptionally well with my Scripture for the year. As I remember that the Lord’s hand is upon me, I will lean in to His strength, guidance, comfort, protection, and love.

Although it will depend on how this year goes, I may already have my word and Scripture for 2020. Stay Tuned!